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DRIVING INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY IN THE BLUE ECONOMY

DRIVING INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY

Driving innovation and sustainability in the blue economy. The first of a series of features by Fish Focus, starting with our spotlight on Iceland. We will be posting an article every day, covering this amazing trip and showcasing the Icelandic Seafood industry, Icelandic heritage and the hospitality of the Icelandic people. You can read the whole publication here

The Iceland Ocean Cluster is a pioneering initiative based in Reykjavík, Iceland, dedicated to nurturing innovation, collaboration and sustainability in the marine and fisheries sectors.

Established in 2011 by Dr. Thor Sigfusson, the cluster serves as a hub for entrepreneurs, researchers, and industry stakeholders, to collaborate and leverage Iceland’s extensive ocean resources and expertise.

Fish Focus met with Dr. Alexandra Leeper, CEO, who gave us a tour of the facility and a great overview of some of the projects and work being undertaken through the cluster and the 100% Fish
Programme, where 90% of Cod is now utilised.

The Mission of 100% Fish Programme is to inspire the seafood industry and seafood communities, to utilise more of each fish, increase the value of each fish landed, support new business
opportunities, increase employment and decrease waste.DRIVING INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY2

Dr. Leeper told fish focus:

“By promoting a holistic approach to the blue economy, the cluster aims to create a thriving ecosystem where businesses can develop cutting-edge technologies, products and services that enhance the sustainability and profitability of the seafood industry.”

“The cluster provides a supportive environment for start-ups and established companies to develop and innovate. This includes offering incubation services, mentorship and access to a network of industry experts.

The focus is on developing new technologies and processes that can improve the efficiency and sustainability of ocean and seafood industries.” She added.

The organisation collaborates with academic institutions, research organisations and industry partners to drive R&D initiatives. These projects often explore new ways to utilise blue resources, such as developing biotechnologies from marine organisms or creating new methods for sustainable fishing and aquaculture.

Since its inception, the Ocean Cluster has significantly impacted the Icelandic economy and the global seafood industry. By nurturing a culture of innovation and sustainability, the cluster has helped numerous companies succeed in the global marketplace while promoting responsible use of aquatic resources.

The Cluster has gathered data on the value of start-ups formally collaborating with the cluster since its inception in 2011. Over the past 13 years, approximately 170 start-ups have partnered with the Cluster, either by utilising facilities in the Ocean Cluster House or through collaboration. The market value of the shares of these start-ups, based on available price information, totals around 330 billion ISK. Seven key start-ups, primarily in the health and pharmaceutical sectors, aquaculture, traceability and refrigeration technology, form the core of this valuation.

The Icelandic Ocean Cluster stands at the forefront of the blue economy revolution, blending innovation, sustainability and collaboration to create a more prosperous and environmentally conscious future for the seafood industry. Through its diverse initiatives and unwavering commitment to its mission, the cluster continues to inspire and drive positive change in the global ocean landscape.

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